I read a story recently about a shoplifting ring that bypassed store clothing security efforts and in the process got away with over 20 million dollars of clothing. The article discussed how the group’s reached extended across the entire nation hitting a variety of retail establishments. The members of this group are accused of having stolen more than $3,000 of merchandise in one store in a single day and more than $4,000 from a Victoria’s Secret on another occasion. Consumerist.com “Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring that Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast”, 9/7/17 by Chris Morran. https://consumerist.com/2017/09/07/feds-break-up-20m-shoplifting-ring-that-stole-clothing-from-coast-to-coast/. The writer goes into detail on how the group operated but I was especially interested in the methods the group used to defeat clothing security tags and other efforts to stop shoplifting by the stores that were victimized.

Clothing security tags, for readers who may not be familiar with them, are tags that can be pinned to clothing and have electronic article surveillance technology embedded in them. The electronic article surveillance or EAS is a radio wave that the tags send out and if picked up by a receiver known as an EAS tower an alarm is set off. The tower alarm serves as a warning to store employees that merchandise with a security tag on it is about to leave the store. Staff members trained on how to respond to an alarm go to the doors and conduct receipt checks and either get a person to buy merchandise or turn it over to them. In many instances a would-be shoplifter is scared off and will drop the items they intended to steal. So a reader is not confused, the tags used for clothing security are not the same or even similar to manufacturer hang tags. The devices I am referring to are made of an extremely hard plastic material. They are durable enough to withstand years of use. One side of the tag has a pin that is inserted through the material and the other piece is a clip that covers the exposed pin on the other side of the garment. The seal is tight and prevents someone from trying to remove the device without tearing into the clothing. In order to remove a tag without damaging to product a store associate must use a removal tool designed to do this.

Getting back to the story I was telling you about, as a Loss Prevention Manager with nearly 17 years of Retail Loss Prevention experience, I was interested in the tactics used by the group. I know first-hand that clothing security when done properly can defeat even Organized Retail Crime Organizations such as the one in the article. One of the methods described was that the group would scout a store in advance to see if Loss Prevention Officers or police were present. It did not say of these stores were avoided only that they wanted to know If they were utilized. Not all stores can afford Loss Prevention or police but that does not mean a store cannot protect merchandise. Training employees on providing great customer service and how to recognize signs of potential shoplifters can be almost as effective. Then I noted that the story went on to say that the group would use “blockers”. I have encountered this trick and it can be countered but store teams have to understand how they work. Blockers are usually not the actual shoplifters. The job of a blocker is to distract employees, prevent them from seeing the actual thief or in extreme cases block an employee from following a shoplifter.

To identify if this ploy is being used store employees must be in contact with one another preferably by radio. If it seems there are multiple shopliftings or suspicious people in the store at the same time they may be “blockers” and trying to spread out the employees. This can be effective if a store has a small staff since they can’t be at the registers and covering all areas of the floor. If a small or medium sized store has an EAS system and is using clothing security tags the best method to combat these groups is to pull two or three staff members to the doors where the EAS towers are located. Before the shoplifter can exit, tagged merchandise will set off the tower alarm and receipt checks can be conducted.

In Part 2, I will review other means used by the group in the article and discuss how your store can avoid being a victim. It is important to remember that your first priority in clothing security is to get an EAS system. The best protection programs revolve around that.

Clothing security is important and we can help you with it. Call1.866.914.2567 and let’s talk.

I read a story recently about a shoplifting ring that bypassed store clothing security efforts and in the process got away with over 20 million dollars of clothing. The article discussed how the group’s reached extended across the entire nation hitting a variety of retail establishments. The members of this group are accused of having stolen more than $3,000 of merchandise in one store in a single day and more than $4,000 from a Victoria’s Secret on another occasion. Consumerist.com “Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring that Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast”, 9/7/17 by Chris Morran. https://consumerist.com/2017/09/07/feds-break-up-20m-shoplifting-ring-that-stole-clothing-from-coast-to-coast/. The writer goes into detail on how the group operated but I was especially interested in the methods the group used to defeat clothing security tags and other efforts to stop shoplifting by the stores that were victimized.

Clothing security tags, for readers who may not be familiar with them, are tags that can be pinned to clothing and have electronic article surveillance technology embedded in them. The electronic article surveillance or EAS is a radio wave that the tags send out and if picked up by a receiver known as an EAS tower an alarm is set off. The tower alarm serves as a warning to store employees that merchandise with a security tag on it is about to leave the store. Staff members trained on how to respond to an alarm go to the doors and conduct receipt checks and either get a person to buy merchandise or turn it over to them. In many instances a would-be shoplifter is scared off and will drop the items they intended to steal. So a reader is not confused, the tags used for clothing security are not the same or even similar to manufacturer hang tags. The devices I am referring to are made of an extremely hard plastic material. They are durable enough to withstand years of use. One side of the tag has a pin that is inserted through the material and the other piece is a clip that covers the exposed pin on the other side of the garment. The seal is tight and prevents someone from trying to remove the device without tearing into the clothing. In order to remove a tag without damaging to product a store associate must use a removal tool designed to do this.

Getting back to the story I was telling you about, as a Loss Prevention Manager with nearly 17 years of Retail Loss Prevention experience, I was interested in the tactics used by the group. I know first-hand that clothing security when done properly can defeat even Organized Retail Crime Organizations such as the one in the article. One of the methods described was that the group would scout a store in advance to see if Loss Prevention Officers or police were present. It did not say of these stores were avoided only that they wanted to know If they were utilized. Not all stores can afford Loss Prevention or police but that does not mean a store cannot protect merchandise. Training employees on providing great customer service and how to recognize signs of potential shoplifters can be almost as effective. Then I noted that the story went on to say that the group would use “blockers”. I have encountered this trick and it can be countered but store teams have to understand how they work. Blockers are usually not the actual shoplifters. The job of a blocker is to distract employees, prevent them from seeing the actual thief or in extreme cases block an employee from following a shoplifter.

To identify if this ploy is being used store employees must be in contact with one another preferably by radio. If it seems there are multiple shopliftings or suspicious people in the store at the same time they may be “blockers” and trying to spread out the employees. This can be effective if a store has a small staff since they can’t be at the registers and covering all areas of the floor. If a small or medium sized store has an EAS system and is using clothing security tags the best method to combat these groups is to pull two or three staff members to the doors where the EAS towers are located. Before the shoplifter can exit, tagged merchandise will set off the tower alarm and receipt checks can be conducted.

In Part 2, I will review other means used by the group in the article and discuss how your store can avoid being a victim. It is important to remember that your first priority in clothing security is to get an EAS system. The best protection programs revolve around that.

Clothing security is important and we can help you with it. Call1.866.914.2567 and let’s talk.

My daughter is in training to become a department manager for a clothing store chain. She stays in regular contact with friends and co-workers even when she isn’t at work, often learning about events that take place shortly after they happen. Not long ago she was at home and a friend who had just gotten off of work called and told her about a group of shoplifters who had been in the store and ran out with two large tote-sized bags and a backpack that appeared to be filled with merchandise. One of the suspects was seen running to a car and jumping into it. The other two suspected thieves were spotted walking quickly to a nearby store in the same shopping plaza and entering it. According to my daughter’s friend a bit later a customer came to their store carrying a pair of name brand shoes that came from their store with a clothing alarm tag still attached to the shoe. The tag had a built in alarm that was still blaring when the patron brought the shoes into the store.

There are a few of you reading this article unfamiliar with a clothing alarm or clothing security tags. Both of these are terms for devices used to prevent the pilfering of clothing from retailers. The tags can be pinned on clothes (usually in a seam to prevent damage to material) in a location that will be visible to a thief. The idea is to deter theft from ever taking place. Often just the sight of a tag is enough to make a criminal reconsider attempting to steal something from a store. The tags are designed to withstand efforts to pry them off of merchandise and they can withstand quite a bit of physical pounding if someone were to try to break them apart. That type of abuse is going to result in damaged goods anyways rendering them useless for wear or resale. Tags also carry electronic article surveillance technology that will cause a Checkpoint tower alarm to sound when tagged products come too close to the towers. Obviously the idea behind the alarms is that trained associates quickly react to alarm activations and merchandise is recovered for the store.

As I mentioned earlier my daughter’s store was using a clothing alarm tag that was sounding a built in alarm when the honest customer brought it back into the store. This store uses clothing security tags that have these built in alarms and others that only sound an alarm if tampered with or set off a tower when a shoplifter tries to sneak tagged merchandise out of a store. The benefit of the added alarm is that it does make it very clear when a person is carrying stolen merchandise around. It is difficult to be discreet while trying to duck into a store and carrying merchandise that is sending out an alarm noise.

I asked my daughter if the police had been called when the perpetrators fled. She told me that their policy is not to call the police on suspected shoplifters who run out the door. Even if merchandise with a clothing alarm tag that sets off the towers at the front doors there is no follow up other than to notify the district Loss Prevention Manager. Having been a Loss Prevention Manager for quite a few years this bothered me and intrigued me at the same time. I know the store has at least some security cameras in it. Why not review some video and then contact the police about the suspected theft? In my opinion this also defeats a part of the purpose of having an electronic article surveillance system in place. Yes, the clothing security tags do deter theft but there has to be follow-up. If there is no follow up with police when there is a strong probability that a theft has taken place then I believe a part of the value of a theft prevention system is lost.

Shoplifters will learn through the grapevine what a store’s policies are regarding shoplifters. When there is no concern that police will be contacted for theft issues thieves begin to take advantage of those businesses. A clothing alarm tag will have the most impact when employees respond to alarms and authorities are contacted for incidents with strong evidence that a theft has occurred.

Don’t take half measures to protect your store and merchandise. Use clothing security tags on all of your products and train employees on alarm response. For the rare occasion someone gets away be sure to partner with police and prosecute when possible. Send a strong message to criminals to take their antics elsewhere.

Clothing Security Tags are important and we can help you with it. Call 1.86.914.2567 and let’s talk.

My daughter is in training to become a department manager for a clothing store chain. She stays in regular contact with friends and co-workers even when she isn’t at work, often learning about events that take place shortly after they happen. Not long ago she was at home and a friend who had just gotten off of work called and told her about a group of shoplifters who had been in the store and ran out with two large tote-sized bags and a backpack that appeared to be filled with merchandise. One of the suspects was seen running to a car and jumping into it. The other two suspected thieves were spotted walking quickly to a nearby store in the same shopping plaza and entering it. According to my daughter’s friend a bit later a customer came to their store carrying a pair of name brand shoes that came from their store with a clothing alarm tag still attached to the shoe. The tag had a built in alarm that was still blaring when the patron brought the shoes into the store.

There are a few of you reading this article unfamiliar with a clothing alarm or clothing security tags. Both of these are terms for devices used to prevent the pilfering of clothing from retailers. The tags can be pinned on clothes (usually in a seam to prevent damage to material) in a location that will be visible to a thief. The idea is to deter theft from ever taking place. Often just the sight of a tag is enough to make a criminal reconsider attempting to steal something from a store. The tags are designed to withstand efforts to pry them off of merchandise and they can withstand quite a bit of physical pounding if someone were to try to break them apart. That type of abuse is going to result in damaged goods anyways rendering them useless for wear or resale. Tags also carry electronic article surveillance technology that will cause a Checkpoint tower alarm to sound when tagged products come too close to the towers. Obviously the idea behind the alarms is that trained associates quickly react to alarm activations and merchandise is recovered for the store.

As I mentioned earlier my daughter’s store was using a clothing alarm tag that was sounding a built in alarm when the honest customer brought it back into the store. This store uses clothing security tags that have these built in alarms and others that only sound an alarm if tampered with or set off a tower when a shoplifter tries to sneak tagged merchandise out of a store. The benefit of the added alarm is that it does make it very clear when a person is carrying stolen merchandise around. It is difficult to be discreet while trying to duck into a store and carrying merchandise that is sending out an alarm noise.

I asked my daughter if the police had been called when the perpetrators fled. She told me that their policy is not to call the police on suspected shoplifters who run out the door. Even if merchandise with a clothing alarm tag that sets off the towers at the front doors there is no follow up other than to notify the district Loss Prevention Manager. Having been a Loss Prevention Manager for quite a few years this bothered me and intrigued me at the same time. I know the store has at least some security cameras in it. Why not review some video and then contact the police about the suspected theft? In my opinion this also defeats a part of the purpose of having an electronic article surveillance system in place. Yes, the clothing security tags do deter theft but there has to be follow-up. If there is no follow up with police when there is a strong probability that a theft has taken place then I believe a part of the value of a theft prevention system is lost.

Shoplifters will learn through the grapevine what a store’s policies are regarding shoplifters. When there is no concern that police will be contacted for theft issues thieves begin to take advantage of those businesses. A clothing alarm tag will have the most impact when employees respond to alarms and authorities are contacted for incidents with strong evidence that a theft has occurred.

Don’t take half measures to protect your store and merchandise. Use clothing security tags on all of your products and train employees on alarm response. For the rare occasion someone gets away be sure to partner with police and prosecute when possible. Send a strong message to criminals to take their antics elsewhere.

Clothing Security Tags deter boosters from stealing your assets on a daily basis. As a Loss Prevention Manager, I often find empty packaging or tags in my store. This helps my store track theft trends, in order to see what security devices to use. You gain extensive knowledge based on your own personal experiences with the devices. You learn by experimenting with different styles, finding out what actually stops merchandise from leaving the building. My store invests in security tags on clothes, in order to reduce their amount of loss each year. This sends boosters to your competitors, keeping your merchandise on your shelves to sell! Why not invest your money on what has been proven to stop shoplifting in other retailers?!

It’s 7:00pm on a Friday, and the store is only an hour away from closing. The store team is busy getting the store ready for the next day, while I am scanning the cameras looking for shoplifters before we close. It may not look busy to the associates, but I see something on camera that catches my eye. I see 3 subjects scoping the store suspiciously for cameras. I keep CCTV on the subjects, due to their odd behavior. Within minutes of seeing their behavior, all 3 subjects walk into our men’s department, right into our popular sportswear section. I keep a close eye on the subjects, due to this department increasing in known theft the last few months. Just 3 weeks prior, I had the store team place Clothing Security Tags on this entire fixture because of the current theft issues. The subjects walk up to one of our high dollar fixtures, which are loaded with several of our popular brands. Subject 1, quickly pulls out 2 large, empty shopping bags out of their pant pocket. Subject 2 & 3 began rapidly stuffing half of the fixture of clothing into the empty bags, while Subject 1 holds the bags open! While concealing, the Subjects stop as if something is wrong. I see on camera, one of the Subjects show the others the Clothing Security Tags! They start panicking and remove all of the concealed product out of the shopping bags. Next, all of the Subjects try to break the tags off of the clothing, but fail miserably! On camera, I can see the frustration on their faces as they try to figure out a new plan. They end up dropping the clothing on the floor, and leave out of our exit doors with just their empty bags. They left my store and never came back. After totaling how much these boosters would have left my store with, if I did not have the security devices present: a grand total of $2,181.78! Within minutes it went from over $2,000 going right out the door, to the boosters leaving immediately with NOTHING. However, think about how many times per week this happens when I am not there to observe? My store could not stand to see any more known loss out of the men’s sportswear section, leading us to take action by placing security tags on clothes. It is such a small task, for such a big win. In this day and age, it is not realistic for associate awareness on the sales floor to be enough in deterring the thieves. Retailers have to use more advanced protection devices that really deters the thieves from coming into the store. The shoplifters will purposely wait till associates are busy with customers and use that perfect opportunity to steal when no one is around. Associates cannot observe everything that is going on. Even a Loss Prevention team cannot observe everything that is going on. So what are you going to do to stop the theft madness?!

In my several years of being a Loss Prevention Manager, I see a massive amount of these same incidents happening on camera due to security tags on clothes. The shoplifters panicking, after seeing what devices we use. Clothing Security Tags should be required in every retailer to deter daily theft walk outs. This is the route to go, if you are looking for an inexpensive fix that truly deters.

For more information about Clothing Security Tags, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

Clothing Security Tags deter boosters from stealing your assets on a daily basis. As a Loss Prevention Manager, I often find empty packaging or tags in my store. This helps my store track theft trends, in order to see what security devices to use. You gain extensive knowledge based on your own personal experiences with the devices. You learn by experimenting with different styles, finding out what actually stops merchandise from leaving the building. My store invests in security tags on clothes, in order to reduce their amount of loss each year. This sends boosters to your competitors, keeping your merchandise on your shelves to sell! Why not invest your money on what has been proven to stop shoplifting in other retailers?!

It’s 7:00pm on a Friday, and the store is only an hour away from closing. The store team is busy getting the store ready for the next day, while I am scanning the cameras looking for shoplifters before we close. It may not look busy to the associates, but I see something on camera that catches my eye. I see 3 subjects scoping the store suspiciously for cameras. I keep CCTV on the subjects, due to their odd behavior. Within minutes of seeing their behavior, all 3 subjects walk into our men’s department, right into our popular sportswear section. I keep a close eye on the subjects, due to this department increasing in known theft the last few months. Just 3 weeks prior, I had the store team place Clothing Security Tags on this entire fixture because of the current theft issues. The subjects walk up to one of our high dollar fixtures, which are loaded with several of our popular brands. Subject 1, quickly pulls out 2 large, empty shopping bags out of their pant pocket. Subject 2 & 3 began rapidly stuffing half of the fixture of clothing into the empty bags, while Subject 1 holds the bags open! While concealing, the Subjects stop as if something is wrong. I see on camera, one of the Subjects show the others the Clothing Security Tags! They start panicking and remove all of the concealed product out of the shopping bags. Next, all of the Subjects try to break the tags off of the clothing, but fail miserably! On camera, I can see the frustration on their faces as they try to figure out a new plan. They end up dropping the clothing on the floor, and leave out of our exit doors with just their empty bags. They left my store and never came back. After totaling how much these boosters would have left my store with, if I did not have the security devices present: a grand total of $2,181.78! Within minutes it went from over $2,000 going right out the door, to the boosters leaving immediately with NOTHING. However, think about how many times per week this happens when I am not there to observe? My store could not stand to see any more known loss out of the men’s sportswear section, leading us to take action by placing security tags on clothes. It is such a small task, for such a big win. In this day and age, it is not realistic for associate awareness on the sales floor to be enough in deterring the thieves. Retailers have to use more advanced protection devices that really deters the thieves from coming into the store. The shoplifters will purposely wait till associates are busy with customers and use that perfect opportunity to steal when no one is around. Associates cannot observe everything that is going on. Even a Loss Prevention team cannot observe everything that is going on. So what are you going to do to stop the theft madness?!

In my several years of being a Loss Prevention Manager, I see a massive amount of these same incidents happening on camera due to security tags on clothes. The shoplifters panicking, after seeing what devices we use. Clothing Security Tags should be required in every retailer to deter daily theft walk outs. This is the route to go, if you are looking for an inexpensive fix that truly deters.

For more information about Clothing Security Tags, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

Shoplifting is a huge problem for business owners. Retailers lose billions of dollars each year, due to exorbitant expanses of theft. But what are they doing to protect themselves? Stores attempt a myriad of solutions to combat the reoccurring problem. However, this issue is colossal and is increasing every day. Most of the retailers I have had the privilege to work with use some form of theft deterrent. Some retailers utilize public view monitors or even visual signs, stating “shoplifters will be prosecuted”. You will see these emblems in fitting rooms or at store entrances. Signs help and monitors, but are not merchandise protection devices. They can make a thief think or plan better strategy, but they do little to prevent a truly resourceful culprit. They alone are not enough to reduce annual shrink totals, so we now have to expand our programs to protect our assets. Retailers need security devices that are shoplifter proof, keeping your merchandise on the shelf. Luckily, now you can use clothing security tags to secure your assets from boosters wiping out your store.

You name it; I have seen it. Throughout my several years of experience in Loss Prevention, clothing security tags have been particularly successful. In 2015, I apprehended a grand total of eighty-three shoplifters in one year at my particular store. Ninety percent of the pilferers intentionally stole products that were not tagged with a clothing alarm. I would watch via CCTV the shoplifters look through the racks and flip through the clothes, hoping to find one without a security device. After not being able to find a non-tagged item, they leave the store and do not come back! This keeps the shoplifters away from your business and sends them to other retailers that do not have their items protected. The trend shows what really works. Each year since 2015, I notice the same type of pattern. The shoplifters are too nervous to steal product with a clothing alarm because they know it will alarm at the door, bringing all eyes on them. That is the last thing a shoplifter wants as they always avoid associates and scope for areas of less traffic. If the thieves try to remove the clothing security tags, it can be very difficult. In my previous stores, I have experimented with these tags and devices to test the removal of them. I’ve learned that even with tools, it is a time consuming and noisy undertaking. When you walk into other retailers, you will notice a majority of them utilize them as well. It is extremely uncommon for a retailer to not use tags now, simply because these stores have seen the importance of keeping a security tag program in place. It makes a huge difference when you look at your current shrink numbers, versus the numbers from prior years of not utilizing them.

The stores who implement this as a mandatory program see it works, and continue the program each year. My stores managers also like that are recyclable, making it an inexpensive and convenient fix for a gigantic problem. You place the clothing alarm right on the product, which takes no time. With how hard you work for sales, we can’t allow tons of product to be in the hands of thieves. I order clothing security tags anytime I work Loss Prevention at a new location, because I know the benefit of having these on my clothing items or accessories. Protect your valuable merchandise by saying NO to thieves with this easy fix!

Get more information on Clothing Security Tags, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567 today.

Shoplifting is a huge problem for business owners. Retailers lose billions of dollars each year, due to exorbitant expanses of theft. But what are they doing to protect themselves? Stores attempt a myriad of solutions to combat the reoccurring problem. However, this issue is colossal and is increasing every day. Most of the retailers I have had the privilege to work with use some form of theft deterrent. Some retailers utilize public view monitors or even visual signs, stating “shoplifters will be prosecuted”. You will see these emblems in fitting rooms or at store entrances. Signs help and monitors, but are not merchandise protection devices. They can make a thief think or plan better strategy, but they do little to prevent a truly resourceful culprit. They alone are not enough to reduce annual shrink totals, so we now have to expand our programs to protect our assets. Retailers need security devices that are shoplifter proof, keeping your merchandise on the shelf. Luckily, now you can use clothing security tags to secure your assets from boosters wiping out your store.

You name it; I have seen it. Throughout my several years of experience in Loss Prevention, clothing security tags have been particularly successful. In 2015, I apprehended a grand total of eighty-three shoplifters in one year at my particular store. Ninety percent of the pilferers intentionally stole products that were not tagged with a clothing alarm. I would watch via CCTV the shoplifters look through the racks and flip through the clothes, hoping to find one without a security device. After not being able to find a non-tagged item, they leave the store and do not come back! This keeps the shoplifters away from your business and sends them to other retailers that do not have their items protected. The trend shows what really works. Each year since 2015, I notice the same type of pattern. The shoplifters are too nervous to steal product with a clothing alarm because they know it will alarm at the door, bringing all eyes on them. That is the last thing a shoplifter wants as they always avoid associates and scope for areas of less traffic. If the thieves try to remove the clothing security tags, it can be very difficult. In my previous stores, I have experimented with these tags and devices to test the removal of them. I’ve learned that even with tools, it is a time consuming and noisy undertaking. When you walk into other retailers, you will notice a majority of them utilize them as well. It is extremely uncommon for a retailer to not use tags now, simply because these stores have seen the importance of keeping a security tag program in place. It makes a huge difference when you look at your current shrink numbers, versus the numbers from prior years of not utilizing them.

The stores who implement this as a mandatory program see it works, and continue the program each year. My stores managers also like that are recyclable, making it an inexpensive and convenient fix for a gigantic problem. You place the clothing alarm right on the product, which takes no time. With how hard you work for sales, we can’t allow tons of product to be in the hands of thieves. I order clothing security tags anytime I work Loss Prevention at a new location, because I know the benefit of having these on my clothing items or accessories. Protect your valuable merchandise by saying NO to thieves with this easy fix!

Get more information on Clothing Security Tags, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567 today.

Ah, the final stretch. I sure hope you’ve enjoyed, and more importantly, learned something from my little mini-series on how to spot a thief in your crowds of customers. We’ll round things out with another 5 tips on how to spot a criminal and to ultimately Stop Shoplifting altogether. So, here’s some more behavioral indicators to look for in your stores.

#11. Draping clothes around a shopping basket

This is another one of those things that I’ve seen hundreds of times. A shoplifter will take several layers of clothing and drape them around the shopping cart, to prevent seeing into the cart. At the bottom of the cart, will be a purse, or bag and it’s here that they conceal product, making it difficult for you to see what they are doing. Anytime I see a shopper doing this, I immediately head over and begin making small talk about this week’s deals, or making comments on their selection of product. This will most often discourage their actions and save you some shrink.

#12. Asking dumb questions

Yes, contrary to what you were taught in school, there are in fact dumb questions. I’ve found that if you happen to startle a would-be shoplifter as they are concealing, or prepping to do so (whether intentional, or not) they often ask some really silly questions. I once turned the corner as this guy was about to conceal some pants, and he began asking me about home insurance policies. I’ve even had a guy ask me if our Checkpoint Tags were tracked by satellites. Granted, sometimes, you just have crazies that shop in the store, but distracting questions, overly odd questions and distracting behaviors could be a strong indicator of a potential thief.

#13. Wearing old and dirty shoes

This one is for all of you footwear retailers out there. If you notice a shopper come in the store with 1. No shoes or 2. Old dirty and worn out shoe, there’s a high chance they’re going to try and pull the old swithceroo. You know, where they leave you their nasty old shoes and leave with new ones, conveniently passing the cash registers. Sometimes, they don’t give two shakes if the shoes have Checkpoint Tags or not, since they’re running as soon as they hit the door. The best thing to do if you observe this is to provide the very best customer service possible. Don’t let them have a chance to swap the shoes.

#14. Bringing in bags from other retailers

Now, if you’re in a mall, this probably doesn’t apply to you. If you’re a stand-alone store, this is odd. If you’re going to Stop Shoplifting, your team has to be observant of this indicator, I’ve seen folks pull into my parking lot (stand-alone store), open their trunk and pull several (full) bags from other retailers from the trunk and then come into my store with them. Before long, they were slipping some of my product into their bags. Train your team to recognize this as a potential indicator and offer to hold the bags at the service desk, or create a policy that discourages shoppers from doing this.

#15. Getting angry at service levels

They’re not angry that there is no service, they’re angry because they’re TOO MUCH service. This is my absolute favorite indicator. Literally no honest shopper is going to turn away good customer service. I’ve had would-be shoplifter’s file corporate complaints against me because I gave them “too much” customer service. Usually, the DM and store manager thank me. 😊 If you have a customer that just gets madder than an old red hen about customer service, well, I suggest that you give them a little more. Chances are they want to be alone to steal from you!

I really hope you’ve learned something from these few tips. Often, we rely on fancy gadgets, technology and our Checkpoint Tags to identify criminals, when in reality, you can just look for a handful of behavioral indicators. While each of the previous 15 tips can help you to Stop Shoplifting, you should also understand that legitimate and honest customers can and do exhibit these same behaviors. Always use these tips as a guide and remember, providing great customer service will always win you praise from your shoppers and will make you a repellent for shoplifters.

For more information about Checkpoint Systems contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

Ah, the final stretch. I sure hope you’ve enjoyed, and more importantly, learned something from my little mini-series on how to spot a thief in your crowds of customers. We’ll round things out with another 5 tips on how to spot a criminal and to ultimately Stop Shoplifting altogether. So, here’s some more behavioral indicators to look for in your stores.

#11. Draping clothes around a shopping basketThis is another one of those things that I’ve seen hundreds of times. A shoplifter will take several layers of clothing and drape them around the shopping cart, to prevent seeing into the cart. At the bottom of the cart, will be a purse, or bag and it’s here that they conceal product, making it difficult for you to see what they are doing. Anytime I see a shopper doing this, I immediately head over and begin making small talk about this week’s deals, or making comments on their selection of product. This will most often discourage their actions and save you some shrink.

#12. Asking dumb questionsYes, contrary to what you were taught in school, there are in fact dumb questions. I’ve found that if you happen to startle a would-be shoplifter as they are concealing, or prepping to do so (whether intentional, or not) they often ask some really silly questions. I once turned the corner as this guy was about to conceal some pants, and he began asking me about home insurance policies. I’ve even had a guy ask me if our Checkpoint Tags were tracked by satellites. Granted, sometimes, you just have crazies that shop in the store, but distracting questions, overly odd questions and distracting behaviors could be a strong indicator of a potential thief.

#13. Wearing old and dirty shoesThis one is for all of you footwear retailers out there. If you notice a shopper come in the store with 1. No shoes or 2. Old dirty and worn out shoe, there’s a high chance they’re going to try and pull the old swithceroo. You know, where they leave you their nasty old shoes and leave with new ones, conveniently passing the cash registers. Sometimes, they don’t give two shakes if the shoes have Checkpoint Tags or not, since they’re running as soon as they hit the door. The best thing to do if you observe this is to provide the very best customer service possible. Don’t let them have a chance to swap the shoes.

#14. Bringing in bags from other retailersNow, if you’re in a mall, this probably doesn’t apply to you. If you’re a stand-alone store, this is odd. If you’re going to Stop Shoplifting, your team has to be observant of this indicator, I’ve seen folks pull into my parking lot (stand-alone store), open their trunk and pull several (full) bags from other retailers from the trunk and then come into my store with them. Before long, they were slipping some of my product into their bags. Train your team to recognize this as a potential indicator and offer to hold the bags at the service desk, or create a policy that discourages shoppers from doing this.

#15. Getting angry at service levelsThey’re not angry that there is no service, they’re angry because they’re TOO MUCH service. This is my absolute favorite indicator. Literally no honest shopper is going to turn away good customer service. I’ve had would-be shoplifter’s file corporate complaints against me because I gave them “too much” customer service. Usually, the DM and store manager thank me. 😊 If you have a customer that just gets madder than an old red hen about customer service, well, I suggest that you give them a little more. Chances are they want to be alone to steal from you!

I really hope you’ve learned something from these few tips. Often, we rely on fancy gadgets, technology and our Checkpoint Tags to identify criminals, when in reality, you can just look for a handful of behavioral indicators. While each of the previous 15 tips can help you to Stop Shoplifting, you should also understand that legitimate and honest customers can and do exhibit these same behaviors. Always use these tips as a guide and remember, providing great customer service will always win you praise from your shoppers and will make you a repellent for shoplifters.

For more information about Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

When it comes to merchandise protection in my stores, I am always looking for the highest quality security devices that are cost effective. Are you looking for a fix that won’t break the bank? Each year expert thieves find new ways to pilfer our highest profit products. As retailers, we must remain hyper vigilant in the fight against loss. I’ve worked in several retail stores who at first, did not have security tags on clothes. I would watch clothing items walk out of the store daily. The shoplifters were taking over the location, leaving shelves empty and sales spiraling down. We could not allow this to keep happening, so we implemented clothing security tags on our products.

As a Loss Prevention manager, I frequently scan my CCTV cameras to analyze trends and patterns. I noticed we were consistently shrinking out in women’s & juniors clothing, so this was a high focus area for my store. We implemented a plan to have any women’s & juniors clothing priced at $29.99 and up, to utilize clothing security tags. Now that we executed a plan, we need to see if it really was working. I was scanning cameras one afternoon and noticed 2 woman in my store carrying large purses. The purses were extremely flat & appeared empty on camera. This alerted me to them, as I know this routine all too well! They both rapidly selected 15 high dollar shirts, priced at $49.99-69.99 each piece. After selecting the items, they lookout for store personnel as they head straight for an area with no checkouts or shoppers around. I knew they were now ready to conceal. They bend down to the ground as they get ready to load up their empty purses. They pull the shirts off the hangers, but then stop to discuss. I can see both subjects placing their hands on the clothing security tags. They try to break it off, but the task proved too difficult. They leave the 15 shirts on the ground, grab their empty purses, and exit into the parking lot. They didn’t realize my store places security tags on clothes. This showed my store team the importance of ensuring that we are utilizing the clothing security tags. These 2 subjects could have absconded close to $1000 in one instance. If the shoplifters decided to be bold by stealing with the tags on, they would set off the security system as they approach the exit. The security system would alert by making a massive noise and light up at the same time. This would place all eyes on them and allow the associates to react in time. Keeping security tags on clothes works as a deterrent in several different ways, which makes them extremely successful in retailers. At my location, we see several of these same incidents similar to the 2 subjects I watched. The shoplifter leaves empty handed due to our tough merchandise protection standards. Each week my store pulls our known theft numbers to see where we stand. For those 2 specific departments, we have noticed a massive decline in thefts after we started the new plan. I’ve personally seen this program work every time. Another positive aspect of the tags, are how customer friendly they are. My store manager really likes that they are reusable and easy to remove at the point of sale. This allows customers to still be able to check out at the registers quickly.

Clothing items are extremely easy to conceal for thieves. Improve your bottom line by simply placing security tags on clothes. Why not protect your assets with an easy, cost effective fix? Clothing security tags ensure that your business is protected. You will notice a difference in your theft problem immediately at your store!

Get more information on Clothing Security Tags, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567 today.

When it comes to merchandise protection in my stores, I am always looking for the highest quality security devices that are cost effective. Are you looking for a fix that won’t break the bank? Each year expert thieves find new ways to pilfer our highest profit products. As retailers, we must remain hyper vigilant in the fight against loss. I’ve worked in several retail stores who at first, did not have security tags on clothes. I would watch clothing items walk out of the store daily. The shoplifters were taking over the location, leaving shelves empty and sales spiraling down. We could not allow this to keep happening, so we implemented clothing security tags on our products.

As a Loss Prevention manager, I frequently scan my CCTV cameras to analyze trends and patterns. I noticed we were consistently shrinking out in women’s & juniors clothing, so this was a high focus area for my store. We implemented a plan to have any women’s & juniors clothing priced at $29.99 and up, to utilize clothing security tags. Now that we executed a plan, we need to see if it really was working. I was scanning cameras one afternoon and noticed 2 woman in my store carrying large purses. The purses were extremely flat & appeared empty on camera. This alerted me to them, as I know this routine all too well! They both rapidly selected 15 high dollar shirts, priced at $49.99-69.99 each piece. After selecting the items, they lookout for store personnel as they head straight for an area with no checkouts or shoppers around. I knew they were now ready to conceal. They bend down to the ground as they get ready to load up their empty purses. They pull the shirts off the hangers, but then stop to discuss. I can see both subjects placing their hands on the clothing security tags. They try to break it off, but the task proved too difficult. They leave the 15 shirts on the ground, grab their empty purses, and exit into the parking lot. They didn’t realize my store places security tags on clothes. This showed my store team the importance of ensuring that we are utilizing the clothing security tags. These 2 subjects could have absconded close to $1000 in one instance. If the shoplifters decided to be bold by stealing with the tags on, they would set off the security system as they approach the exit. The security system would alert by making a massive noise and light up at the same time. This would place all eyes on them and allow the associates to react in time. Keeping security tags on clothes works as a deterrent in several different ways, which makes them extremely successful in retailers. At my location, we see several of these same incidents similar to the 2 subjects I watched. The shoplifter leaves empty handed due to our tough merchandise protection standards. Each week my store pulls our known theft numbers to see where we stand. For those 2 specific departments, we have noticed a massive decline in thefts after we started the new plan. I’ve personally seen this program work every time. Another positive aspect of the tags, are how customer friendly they are. My store manager really likes that they are reusable and easy to remove at the point of sale. This allows customers to still be able to check out at the registers quickly.

Clothing items are extremely easy to conceal for thieves. Improve your bottom line by simply placing security tags on clothes. Why not protect your assets with an easy, cost effective fix? Clothing security tags ensure that your business is protected. You will notice a difference in your theft problem immediately at your store!

Get more information on Clothing Security Tags, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567 today.

I had so much fun writing some ways that you can spot a thief, I thought I’d continue with a few more ways that you and your teams can identify potential external theft. Remember, the very best way to Stop Shoplifting is to provide exceptional customer service. This scares off the crooks and keeps your customers coming back week, after week. So, without delay, here’s a few other ways that you can identify a probable shoplifter.

#6. Out of season clothing

if it’s 90 degrees outside, and someone walks into the store wearing a heavy coat, chances are there wasn’t a sudden blizzard that you didn’t know about. I’ve caught several shoplifters who’ve told me that they thought that a heavy coat would block the Checkpoint Tags from sounding the alarm. Wrong. Just wrong on so many levels. So the next time that you see someone with a heavy parka and a beanie in the middle of summer, go offer some service; and perhaps a water.

#7. Erratic shopping behavior

it’s one thing to shop around the store, especially if you’re gift shopping, or maybe just killing time. I’m guilty of that, especially around lunch time. There is a line that can be crossed from simple wandering, to erratic behavior that should cue your Spidey Senses. Shoppers that almost run from department to department and grab whatever they can and toss it in the basket could be a red flag. Shoppers that seem “wired” or under the influence can also be strong indicators of a possible theft. Shoppers that bite your Checkpoint Tags should be a giant, waving red flag (that’s a story for another time). If you have a shopper exhibiting this behavior, then please, by all means, go offer some service; at your own risk… 😊

#8. Flat and empty purses

Most ladies carry a purse. To that point, the spectrum is pretty wide on what is carried in those purses. I know some that carry virtually everything needed for a three-day hike in the Himalia’s, where others stick to the bare essentials. What really should stand out to you is purses that are COMPLETELY flat. Purses that are folded up on top of a basket, or folded flat under the shopper’s arm. Chances are, if someone is bringing a completely empty purse into the store, they probably want to fill it with goodies.

#9. Staging merchandise

Sometimes, shoplifters have to build up the courage to do the deed. If you want to Stop Shoplifting, you should be able to quickly identify this behavior. In this scenario the shoplifter takes a product, like clothing, or other items from the home location and brings them to an area of the store that is somewhat secluded. Perhaps they remove the Checkpoint Tags here, but the merchandise is then placed on the shelf, or hidden behind other product. This shoplifter may make this trip several times before going back and finally loading up before exiting. Pay attention to shoppers that do this and if you see it, get in there and provide some customer service!

#10. Placing merchandise on top of a purse

This is a combination of the two indicators above. Take special note of shoppers that take items (clothing, small items, etc), fold them up and place them on top of their purse, which is in turn sitting on the top portion of their basket. I’ve seen this one a thousand time. This is usually a middle-age female, who may be a regular customer. She may spend a significant amount of money, but she’s also robbing you blind. By folding the product and placing it right on top of the purse, it can be concealed in a matter of seconds. ANY time I see this action in my store, I immediately provide the very best customer service. Often, I’ll remark on specific items that I see, so that the shoppers sees that I’m aware of what they are in possession of.

Remember, there are dozens of indicators that can alert you to a potential shoplifter, the end result to discourage them is always the same. Customer service can and will Stop Shoplifting. Train your teams to provide the best possible to everyone, and it will increase your sale and ultimately decrease shrink.

For more information about Checkpoint Systems contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

I had so much fun writing some ways that you can spot a thief, I thought I’d continue with a few more ways that you and your teams can identify potential external theft. Remember, the very best way to Stop Shoplifting is to provide exceptional customer service. This scares off the crooks and keeps your customers coming back week, after week. So, without delay, here’s a few other ways that you can identify a probable shoplifter.

#6. Out of season clothing

if it’s 90 degrees outside, and someone walks into the store wearing a heavy coat, chances are there wasn’t a sudden blizzard that you didn’t know about. I’ve caught several shoplifters who’ve told me that they thought that a heavy coat would block the Checkpoint Tags from sounding the alarm. Wrong. Just wrong on so many levels. So the next time that you see someone with a heavy parka and a beanie in the middle of summer, go offer some service; and perhaps a water.

#7. Erratic shopping behavior

It’s one thing to shop around the store, especially if you’re gift shopping, or maybe just killing time. I’m guilty of that, especially around lunch time. There is a line that can be crossed from simple wandering, to erratic behavior that should cue your Spidey Senses. Shoppers that almost run from department to department and grab whatever they can and toss it in the basket could be a red flag. Shoppers that seem “wired” or under the influence can also be strong indicators of a possible theft. Shoppers that bite your Checkpoint Tags should be a giant, waving red flag (that’s a story for another time). If you have a shopper exhibiting this behavior, then please, by all means, go offer some service; at your own risk… 😊

#8. Flat and empty purses

Most ladies carry a purse. To that point, the spectrum is pretty wide on what is carried in those purses. I know some that carry virtually everything needed for a three-day hike in the Himalia’s, where others stick to the bare essentials. What really should stand out to you is purses that are COMPLETELY flat. Purses that are folded up on top of a basket, or folded flat under the shopper’s arm. Chances are, if someone is bringing a completely empty purse into the store, they probably want to fill it with goodies.

#9. Staging merchandise

Sometimes, shoplifters have to build up the courage to do the deed. If you want to Stop Shoplifting, you should be able to quickly identify this behavior. In this scenario the shoplifter takes a product, like clothing, or other items from the home location and brings them to an area of the store that is somewhat secluded. Perhaps they remove the Checkpoint Tags here, but the merchandise is then placed on the shelf, or hidden behind other product. This shoplifter may make this trip several times before going back and finally loading up before exiting. Pay attention to shoppers that do this and if you see it, get in there and provide some customer service!

#10. Placing merchandise on top of a purse

This is a combination of the two indicators above. Take special note of shoppers that take items (clothing, small items, etc), fold them up and place them on top of their purse, which is in turn sitting on the top portion of their basket. I’ve seen this one a thousand time. This is usually a middle-age female, who may be a regular customer. She may spend a significant amount of money, but she’s also robbing you blind. By folding the product and placing it right on top of the purse, it can be concealed in a matter of seconds. ANY time I see this action in my store, I immediately provide the very best customer service. Often, I’ll remark on specific items that I see, so that the shoppers sees that I’m aware of what they are in possession of.

Remember, there are dozens of indicators that can alert you to a potential shoplifter, the end result to discourage them is always the same. Customer service can and will Stop Shoplifting. Train your teams to provide the best possible to everyone, and it will increase your sale and ultimately decrease shrink.

For more information about Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

By the time a shoplifter passes through the tower with an item that still has some of your Checkpoint Tags attached, you’re reacting to the theft. If you really want to Stop Shoplifting, you have to be able to spot a thief from a mile away; but what does a shoplifter look like? Well, there’s no common appearance to a shoplifter. There are however, common indicators that can help you, and your team identify those with ill-intent so you can take a pro-active approach to stop losses. Remember that the best way to prevent external losses is by offering exceptional levels of customer service!

#1. Clearing of pegs / shelves

It’s probably a bit suspicious if someone walks in, completely clears a peg, rack, or other display and walks to a secluded section of the store. This person needs some heavy doses of customer service. Granted, there is often a legitimate customer, but I can guarantee you that they won’t mind the extra service.

#2. Looking up and around

Is the customer paying attention to the product in front of them, or are they more concerned with looking at the ceiling and at you and your employees? In my experience, normal shoppers couldn’t care less about what’s above them, and pay no mind to your security cameras. This should be a strong indicator that something is out of the ordinary. Go give that guy some top-notch customer service!

#3. No regard to size or style

Stop Shoplifting by paying attention to this behavior. If you have a customer that is passing by clothing racks and simply grabbing as much as possible, you might have a shoplifter. If you notice that this customer is more concerned with your Checkpoint Tags than the size, color or price of the clothing, this person needs some customer service! This is usually a tell-tale sign of someone that will layer the clothing in your fitting room, or perhaps just run out of your front door.

#4. Watch those high-priced items

Normally, if you go into a store to make a high dollar purchase, you generally have an idea of what you want. Rarely is a $200+ purchase made solely on impulse these days. Take note to customers who seem to hover around displays of high value merchandise. This is a perfect time to play offense and Stop Shoplifting before it happens. And hey, if they are truly a legit customer, they’ll will appreciate the service and you may even boost your sales for the day.

#5. Avoiding employees

Most shoppers love getting that personal level of customer service; wouldn’t you? I know it makes me feel appreciated as a customer when store employees go out of their way to assist me, answer my questions and help me find the best item for me, and not their bottom line. Shoplifters though, HATE customer service. If you have a shopper that is purposely dodging you and your team, or replying to your offering of service with a quick “no”, then they may be up to no good.

These are just a few of the ways to spot a lifter; there are many more! Remember, the best thing you can do to avoid shoplifting loses (second to your Checkpoint Tags), is to provide the best customer service possible. Not only will your shoplifters HATE this, but your customers will love it and keep coming back. Shoplifters… not so much!

For more information about Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

By the time a shoplifter passes through the tower with an item that still has some of your Checkpoint Tags attached, you’re reacting to the theft. If you really want to Stop Shoplifting, you have to be able to spot a thief from a mile away; but what does a shoplifter look like? Well, there’s no common appearance to a shoplifter. There are however, common indicators that can help you, and your team identify those with ill-intent so you can take a pro-active approach to stop losses. Remember that the best way to prevent external losses is by offering exceptional levels of customer service!

#1. Clearing of pegs / shelves

It’s probably a bit suspicious if someone walks in, completely clears a peg, rack, or other display and walks to a secluded section of the store. This person needs some heavy doses of customer service. Granted, there is often a legitimate customer, but I can guarantee you that they won’t mind the extra service.

#2. Looking up and around

Is the customer paying attention to the product in front of them, or are they more concerned with looking at the ceiling and at you and your employees? In my experience, normal shoppers couldn’t care less about what’s above them, and pay no mind to your security cameras. This should be a strong indicator that something is out of the ordinary. Go give that guy some top-notch customer service!

#3. No regard to size or style

Stop Shoplifting by paying attention to this behavior. If you have a customer that is passing by clothing racks and simply grabbing as much as possible, you might have a shoplifter. If you notice that this customer is more concerned with your Checkpoint Tags than the size, color or price of the clothing, this person needs some customer service! This is usually a tell-tale sign of someone that will layer the clothing in your fitting room, or perhaps just run out of your front door.

#4. Watch those high-priced items

Normally, if you go into a store to make a high dollar purchase, you generally have an idea of what you want. Rarely is a $200+ purchase made solely on impulse these days. Take note to customers who seem to hover around displays of high value merchandise. This is a perfect time to play offense and Stop Shoplifting before it happens. And hey, if they are truly a legit customer, they’ll will appreciate the service and you may even boost your sales for the day.

#5. Avoiding employees

Most shoppers love getting that personal level of customer service; wouldn’t you? I know it makes me feel appreciated as a customer when store employees go out of their way to assist me, answer my questions and help me find the best item for me, and not their bottom line. Shoplifters though, HATE customer service. If you have a shopper that is purposely dodging you and your team, or replying to your offering of service with a quick “no”, then they may be up to no good.

These are just a few of the ways to spot a lifter; there are many more! Remember, the best thing you can do to avoid shoplifting loses (second to your Checkpoint Tags), is to provide the best customer service possible. Not only will your shoplifters HATE this, but your customers will love it and keep coming back. Shoplifters… not so much!

For more information about Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.866.914.2567.

What is a clothing alarm? Someone seeing me in shorts and flip flops would say they experienced a clothing alarm. Some might say wearing white after Labor Day is a clothing faux pas that would cause an alarm. The recent surge in people wearing clown suits and lurking around neighborhoods can be alarming. None of these is the type of clothing alarm I am speaking of. I am concerned with clothing security or the lack of it in many cases. You are probably not aware that according to the Global Retail Theft Barometer Report for 2014-2015, globally, footwear ranked number one for “Most Stolen Items” in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and sports related clothing ranked third in the same category (page 23). In North America for the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” section, shoe theft was number one and sports related clothing ranked number two (page 55). If you own or manage a store that sells any type of footwear or clothing the theft of fashion apparel is one trend you don’t want to take the lead on.

Clothing security starts with using Checkpoint Tags on clothes. Tags include hard and soft versions that work in conjunction with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers. EAS pedestals are usually located within stores near entrance and exit points (I have been seeing them more recently installed near hallways leading to restrooms). Tagged merchandise carried too close to a tower activates a loud, beeping alarm and causes pulsating LED lights built in the tower to turn on. Store management or employees trained on proper response quickly determine the reason for the activation and recover goods or prompt the offender to purchase the item(s).

Hard styles of Checkpoint Tags are pinned to merchandise in a highly visible area, with the intention of deterring potential thieves from even attempting to take merchandise in the first place. This type of tag requires a detachment tool only available from Checkpoint to remove the tag at the point of sale. A soft tag comes on a roll of tags and can be peeled off and applied to a clothing manufacturer tag. Some store Loss Prevention Officers and retail managers stick them inside a pocket to fool thieves who might tear the manufacturer tag off and try to defeat the security measure. Unlike the hard tag, soft tags are not removed for reuse, they are deactivated at the point of sale so they won’t active EAS pedestals. The idea behind the tags being visible is that it deters the criminal act in the first place and the thieves go shopping elsewhere.

I mentioned footwear as the number one stolen item in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and some of you may be wondering how you can use clothing security on shoes. The hard Checkpoint tags can be pinned through shoe eyelets and buckles preventing damage to shoes while still making it hard for a shoplifter to wear a pair out of a store without being seen or setting off alarms. Soft tags can be placed inside a shoe down towards the toes or in some cases under a sole insert within the shoe.

The thought of shoes and sports apparel being ripped off from your store should give you concern over what your next inventory results will look like. The hit to your bottom line can’t just be ignored or erased, it must be addressed quickly. Clothing alarm protection and Checkpoint tags can help ensure the bad guys won’t be the best dressed thieves in town because they picked on your stores. Don’t get caught with your pants down, be proactive and address theft and fraud before it becomes a major issue. Start using clothing security tags today.

Clothing Alarms are important and we can help you with it. Call 1.866.914.2567 and let’s talk.

What is a clothing alarm? Someone seeing me in shorts and flip flops would say they experienced a clothing alarm. Some might say wearing white after Labor Day is a clothing faux pas that would cause an alarm. The recent surge in people wearing clown suits and lurking around neighborhoods can be alarming. None of these is the type of clothing alarm I am speaking of. I am concerned with clothing security or the lack of it in many cases. You are probably not aware that according to the Global Retail Theft Barometer Report for 2014-2015, globally, footwear ranked number one for “Most Stolen Items” in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and sports related clothing ranked third in the same category (page 23). In North America for the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” section, shoe theft was number one and sports related clothing ranked number two (page 55). If you own or manage a store that sells any type of footwear or clothing the theft of fashion apparel is one trend you don’t want to take the lead on.

Clothing security starts with using Checkpoint Tags on clothes. Tags include hard and soft versions that work in conjunction with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers. EAS pedestals are usually located within stores near entrance and exit points (I have been seeing them more recently installed near hallways leading to restrooms). Tagged merchandise carried too close to a tower activates a loud, beeping alarm and causes pulsating LED lights built in the tower to turn on. Store management or employees trained on proper response quickly determine the reason for the activation and recover goods or prompt the offender to purchase the item(s).

Hard styles of Checkpoint Tags are pinned to merchandise in a highly visible area, with the intention of deterring potential thieves from even attempting to take merchandise in the first place. This type of tag requires a detachment tool only available from Checkpoint to remove the tag at the point of sale. A soft tag comes on a roll of tags and can be peeled off and applied to a clothing manufacturer tag. Some store Loss Prevention Officers and retail managers stick them inside a pocket to fool thieves who might tear the manufacturer tag off and try to defeat the security measure. Unlike the hard tag, soft tags are not removed for reuse, they are deactivated at the point of sale so they won’t active EAS pedestals. The idea behind the tags being visible is that it deters the criminal act in the first place and the thieves go shopping elsewhere.

I mentioned footwear as the number one stolen item in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and some of you may be wondering how you can use clothing security on shoes. The hard Checkpoint tags can be pinned through shoe eyelets and buckles preventing damage to shoes while still making it hard for a shoplifter to wear a pair out of a store without being seen or setting off alarms. Soft tags can be placed inside a shoe down towards the toes or in some cases under a sole insert within the shoe.

The thought of shoes and sports apparel being ripped off from your store should give you concern over what your next inventory results will look like. The hit to your bottom line can’t just be ignored or erased, it must be addressed quickly. Clothing alarm protection and Checkpoint tags can help ensure the bad guys won’t be the best dressed thieves in town because they picked on your stores. Don’t get caught with your pants down, be proactive and address theft and fraud before it becomes a major issue. Start using clothing security tags today.

Clothing Security is important and we can help you with it. Call 1.866.914.2567 and let’s talk.

Barely Making A Profit Due To Clothing Theft? Address The Problem By Using Security Tags On Clothes

Wardrobe malfunctions seem to be an all too familiar term in the entertainment industry. Who can forget the one that seemed to start it all, the Superbowl XXXVIII half-time escapade? No, this is not a re-visitation of the (YUCK) sordid event. This is an article on clothing security but when I speak of clothing security, I don’t mean using suspenders to prevent pants from falling down or ensuring buttons are properly secured so clothing doesn’t come undone. The only big reveal here is going to show you how you can prevent clothes from being stolen. When garments aren’t properly secured shoplifters take advantage of the situation and remove them…from your store. The result is lost profit for the store, increased stock shortage, and the need to increase prices on other items to make up for the loss. How can a retailer prevent shelves and racks from being stripped bare? Retailers can stop theft by using security tags on clothes.

Checkpoint tags are an effective means of discouraging thieves from attempting to deprive you of your products. All of the tags are built with radio frequency (rf) technology that works with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers usually located at store entry/exit points. Garments that are protected with clothing security tags set off the tower alarms when the merchandise is carried into the receiver’s detection field. Whether a tag is hidden in a pocket or pinned directly to the item, the pedestal can “sense” the Checkpoint tags and begin alarming appropriately. Beeping noises and flashing lights let employees know that a tag has been detected and unpaid merchandise is about to be removed from the store. Staff then respond and recover clothes through receipt checks or a thief dumping product and running.

Clothing security tags can be in a soft version that is peeled off of a roll of tags. They can be stuck to hang tags, plastic bags that hold socks or undergarments and even hidden in a jacket, pant or shirt pocket. Hiding a tag is useful if a “visible” soft tag is hung on a manufacturer’s hang tag. Should a thief pull the hang tag off they won’t think to look for a hidden Checkpoint tag and the pedestal will still alarm. The hard tag versions are pinned to the garment with the intention that they are visible to thieves and immediately deter any thought of theft. Hard Checkpoint tags are built to be almost impossible to pry off. If a shoplifter decides to try to force one of these clothing security tags off they damage the item and render it unserviceable. So not only do tags act as a deterrent to shoplifting they also stop it dead in its tracks.

The naked truth about security tags on clothes is that while they are an effective means of reducing theft, they are rarely used to their fullest potential. Many retailers will apply them to high end or more expensive merchandise but fail to place them on everything. These half measures make little sense. More protection would mean more savings from reduced shortage. Think about it like this, how many people would leave home and only lock the front door? Why lock the back door too when 50% of the home is secure? No one does this. They lock all the doors to ensure NOTHING is stolen. You don’t buy a home insurance policy to protect half of a house you buy it to protect the whole thing. Store managers should protect all of the clothing in a store and take full advantage of the benefits of a Loss Prevention system.

Security tags on clothes prevent exposure to needless theft and profit loss. Use Checkpoint tags and EAS pedestals to cover your store against shoplifters and see how much money can be added to your bottom line.

Wardrobe malfunctions seem to be an all too familiar term in the entertainment industry. Who can forget the one that seemed to start it all, the Superbowl XXXVIII half-time escapade? No, this is not a re-visitation of the (YUCK) sordid event. This is an article on clothing security but when I speak of clothing security, I don’t mean using suspenders to prevent pants from falling down or ensuring buttons are properly secured so clothing doesn’t come undone. The only big reveal here is going to show you how you can prevent clothes from being stolen. When garments aren’t properly secured shoplifters take advantage of the situation and remove them…from your store. The result is lost profit for the store, increased stock shortage, and the need to increase prices on other items to make up for the loss. How can a retailer prevent shelves and racks from being stripped bare? Retailers can stop theft by using security tags on clothes.

Checkpoint tags are an effective means of discouraging thieves from attempting to deprive you of your products. All of the tags are built with radio frequency (rf) technology that works with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers usually located at store entry/exit points. Garments that are protected with clothing security tags set off the tower alarms when the merchandise is carried into the receiver’s detection field. Whether a tag is hidden in a pocket or pinned directly to the item, the pedestal can “sense” the Checkpoint tags and begin alarming appropriately. Beeping noises and flashing lights let employees know that a tag has been detected and unpaid merchandise is about to be removed from the store. Staff then respond and recover clothes through receipt checks or a thief dumping product and running.

Clothing security tags can be in a soft version that is peeled off of a roll of tags. They can be stuck to hang tags, plastic bags that hold socks or undergarments and even hidden in a jacket, pant or shirt pocket. Hiding a tag is useful if a “visible” soft tag is hung on a manufacturer’s hang tag. Should a thief pull the hang tag off they won’t think to look for a hidden Checkpoint tag and the pedestal will still alarm. The hard tag versions are pinned to the garment with the intention that they are visible to thieves and immediately deter any thought of theft. Hard Checkpoint tags are built to be almost impossible to pry off. If a shoplifter decides to try to force one of these clothing security tags off they damage the item and render it unserviceable. So not only do tags act as a deterrent to shoplifting they also stop it dead in its tracks.

The naked truth about security tags on clothes is that while they are an effective means of reducing theft, they are rarely used to their fullest potential. Many retailers will apply them to high end or more expensive merchandise but fail to place them on everything. These half measures make little sense. More protection would mean more savings from reduced shortage. Think about it like this, how many people would leave home and only lock the front door? Why lock the back door too when 50% of the home is secure? No one does this. They lock all the doors to ensure NOTHING is stolen. You don’t buy a home insurance policy to protect half of a house you buy it to protect the whole thing. Store managers should protect all of the clothing in a store and take full advantage of the benefits of a Loss Prevention system.

Security tags on clothes prevent exposure to needless theft and profit loss. Use Checkpoint tags and EAS pedestals to cover your store against shoplifters and see how much money can be added to your bottom line.